Three years ago tonight....

My dear friends,

As many of you know, my Rick passed away on Thanksgiving morning. But it was exactly this date and time three years ago that Rick was initially diagnosed with colon cancer. He had arrived home after spending a wonderful day with his son at a Boston Pops concert. He brought me home two signed CD's by the conductor, Keith Lockhart. We were about to go out to dinner a movie when he walked into the living room and announced that he had to go to the hospital. That moment is forever etched in my mind. My heart and life was shattered that night when we were told that horrible news.

I'd like to share a little about his life with you if I may. He battled on for these past three years with such determinism and optimism, never a cry of poor me, or even a tear. His typical statement to me was, "We'll just plow through it." or "One day at a time", no matter the pain or sickness that he endured. At 6'4", Rick was a "gentle giant", a wonderful partner, father and son, a true gentleman in every respect. He worked as an MIT Research Engineer, but he was so much more. He enjoyed cooking and making bread as hobbies, in addition to hiking, skiing, swimming, kayaking and camping (not the usual scientist hobbies, but that's what made him special.). In his younger days, he coached men's and women's volleyball while he studied at Rutgers for his graduate degree. He was my brave and courageous man, my true hero. My heart will forever feel a void without his presence in my life. I loved him so very very much.

This is a little late, but I want to thank everyone for your warm thoughts, prayers and support during this very difficult time. There were many days when I felt helpless, and you gave me hope and encouragement. Thank you my dear friends, you are such wonderful people and I'm so very fortunate to know each and every one of you.

With love,

Cynthia